Not to mention one of the best lobster rolls around (it is somewhat of an insider thing - not on the menu, so make sure to ask). The clams are great too. Even though my family grew up clamming and steamers and fried clams were a staple of my childhood, I never took to them until I had them at the Choate Bridge a few years ago. The experience was transcendent, and I am a huge fan!

Thanks for great suggestions. Had a lovely time there and actually ended up at Tom Shea's in Essex. Lovely dinner, great view (situated on the Essex river, fishing boats coming and going) , good service. Had to go for the Fried Clams, being from the West Coast. They were very fresh, moist and yummy. Hubby had swordfish, just 1 hour off the boat. Cooked to perfection...They had live bluegrass music last night also (Thursday). Heard great things about Zabaglione, Choate and Ithaca also. Have to wait till next trip. Thanks again all!